Dip Pens
Dip pens are pens you dip in ink - they don't have any ink stored in them, and need to be dipped every few words or lines of drawing. So why would anyone still use these old things when we have pens that are so much easier? Well, there are a few reasons:
- It's very quick to change ink colours - just dip in a different colour next time, maybe wiping on a bit of tissue if there was ink still on the nib.
- Some specialist nibs are only available this way, especially where they're likely to wear out in use, or are easily damaged. If you want a really flexible nib, dip pens can be the best choice.
- They can use inks that can't be used in fountain pens, including pigment inks and ink with shellac added for shine.
- They're a nice old-fashioned thing that some people just enjoy the experience of using.
Along with a selection of traditional and unusual nibs from Brause and Manuscript, we have some of the most popular Japanese nibs from Nikko and Tachikawa - their 'G' nibs are very popular for manga and modern styles of calligraphy.
Dip Pens FAQ
Why use dip pens and nibs when there are fountain pens?
There can be a few reasons. Dip pens and nibs can use inks that a fountain pen can’t, like drawing and calligraphy inks with pigments and even shellac for shiny results. They’re very quick and easy to change colours - quick wipe, dip in the new colour. The nibs can also be made much more flexible, which can be very important for calligraphy and drawing.
What sort of ink should be used with dip pens?
Generally, calligraphy ink and drawing inks are best.
Can I use fountain pen ink?
Yes, but it might not work as well. Ink that’s intended for dip pens is usually thicker, and sticks to the nib better. Fountain pen ink usually doesn’t stay on the nib so well, so you’ll have to dip more often.
How do I fit a nib into a nib holder?
They’re almost always just a push fit. Push carefully, to avoid stabbing yourself with the nib, or damaging it.